1995 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1969 Volvo 120
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Volvo 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1969 Volvo 120. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1969 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 29 kg more than 1969 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Volvo 120 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1969 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1969 Volvo 120 (158 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1969 Volvo 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda MX-3 | 1969 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |
